The use of the third dimension has become the norm in military operations. The supremacy inherent in mastery of the air and of space plays a stabilising role and provides armed forces with the reach they need and global strategic coverage. It permits the simultaneous or sequenced attack of the key elements of a state or organisation, employing appropriate weapons at short notice. The supremacy available through the use of a modern air arm confers a decisive advantage on those nations that possess it. The aim is to ensure mastery of the third dimension so that political and military decision-makers can be assured of the freedom of action that is a prerequisite to any commitment of military force.

In less than a century, air power has developed out of all recognition, demonstrating not only its unique capabilities of reactivity and accurate strike but also its ability to intervene over great distances. Initially conceived as a resource that was ancillary to the engagement of other arms, its specific concept of operations progressively emerged to the point where it affirmed its status as an independent airborne element; this led to the creation of the French Air Force (FAF) on 2 July 1934, and it was this decision that finally enabled air power’s strategic capabilities to be developed.

The intrinsic qualities of such power mean that it can offer a wide range of responses to any crisis situation. Finally, by incorporating space into the overall capability mix it has become an aerospace force.